Obituary of James Patrick McMahon

Mr. James P. McMahon, 87, of Amsterdam, NY died peacefully on Sunday, September 19, 2010 at the Edward L. Wilkinson R.H.C.F. surrounded by his family. James, known by most as "Jim", by those close to him as "Sparky" and by his grandchildren as Grandpa or Pop, was born February 1923 to Lillian O'Brien and James McMahon in New York City. Jim spent his childhood there with his sister Madeline and their parents during the Great Depression. His stories of those early years, having to wrap newspapers around their legs under their pants to keep warm, fishing in the East River and the struggles of an Irish immigrant family in that atmosphere will live on in our memories forever. Jim was a decorated U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy veteran serving just prior to and during W.W.I.I. He served as a radio operator during his time in the Navy, thus earning his nickname "Sparky". Some of his decorations including medals for bravery in the European African Middle Eastern Campaign,, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign and Medal of the Victorious W.W.I.I. We know Jim's father was very proud, himself being a Purple Heart recipient. He spent the rest of his working years as a plumber and business owner, as well as being a retired firefighter. An active member of his community, Jim was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, Knights of Columbus and active Republican chairperson on Long Island. Jim spent several of his later years remodeling his church, Christ the King, in Ocala, Florida which now thanks to his efforts has pews, a community center and stained glass windows. He was an avid boatman and fisherman who prided himself on finding and utilizing the most innovative and cheapest of baits, which included things like creamed corn and old fish. Jim is preceded by his son James. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Clementine McMahon, two children Michael and Valerie McMahon, five stepchildren Jerry, Albert, Richard and Tina Palazzo and Susan Winters along with their spouses, as well as 17 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. His antics, endlessly entertaining stories, swimming lessons, quirky methods, sharp tongue, unedited commentary and unending, unconditional love will be cherished by his family forever. James Patrick McMahon is a man who will live on in the hearts and minds of every person who ever had the privilege of knowing him. The Mass of Christian will be offered on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at 11 o'clock at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY with the Rev. John Medwid as celebrant. Jim's family will accompany him on Thursday, where he will be laid to rest in Calverton National Cemetery. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Today, Tuesday, September 21, 2010 from 4 until 7 p.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, where his arrangements have been entrusted. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the North American Shrine of Our Lady of Martyrs, 136 Shrine Road, Auriesville, NY.